Overlapping Plug Connector Structure for Shock-Resistant Mating
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electrical connector pairs are prone to releasing their mating connection when subjected to external shocks or loads, which compromises the reliability of signal transmission between connectors and cables.
Innovation Solution
The electrical connector pair design includes receptacle and plug connectors with projections that overlap when viewed from the mating direction, enhancing the retention force by interlocking mechanisms such as the first locking part and projections on the plug connectors, preventing easy disengagement under external forces.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional connector design without overlapping projections is used, then the structure is simple and easy to manufacture, but the mating connection is easily released under external shocks or loads
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces projections that extend in the first direction (parallel to the board surface) beyond the connector housing, creating an overlapping configuration when connectors are arrayed adjacent to each other. This dimensional extension adds inter-connector engagement capability without complicating the basic connector structure, resolving the contradiction between reliability and device complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines multiple functions into the projection structure: it serves as both a mechanical interlock between adjacent connectors and a structural element of the connector housing. The projections of adjacent connectors overlap to create mutual engagement, merging the functions of structural support and connection retention, thereby improving reliability without proportionally increasing complexity
2Strength
If connectors are arrayed adjacent to each other without overlapping projections, then the manufacturing process is simple, but the connectors cannot resist external shocks or unintended loads effectively
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the connector array into individually mounted connectors, each with its own projections extending in the first direction. This segmentation allows each connector to be manufactured independently using standard processes, while the overlapping projections of adjacent connectors provide collective strength against external shocks and loads, resolving the contradiction between strength and ease of manufacture
Data Source
AI summary
An electrical connector pair (1) includes: receptacle connectors (4) mounted on a mounting face (6a) of a board (6) and arrayed in a Y-axis direction along the mounting face (6a); and plug connectors (5) capable of mating with the receptacle connectors (4) on a one-to-one basis. The plug connectors (5) each include a projection (24b) projecting in the Y-axis direction in such a way as to partially overlap with an adjacent plug connector (5) of the plug connectors (5) when viewed from a Z-axis direction in which the receptacle connectors (4) mate with the plug connectors (5).